Repair And Fix it

You can pull a code from your 97 Chevy S10 Blazer right in your garage, saving yourself money and time. The Blazer comes equipped with an On-Board Diagnostics II computer (OBD-II). This computer retrieves and stores all trouble codes it receives from various sensors positioned throughout the vehicle. The Blazers computer turns on warning or service lights on the instrument panel to alert you to the malfunction. You can pull these codes from the computer using a small, handheld device called an OBD-II code scanner. You can buy this online or at any auto-parts retailer.

Instructions

1

Find the diagnostic port on the drivers-side dash under the steering column. Its the same size and shape as code scanners connective end.

2

Plug the code scanner into this diagnostic port. Put the key into the ignition and turn it to the "ACC" position. Dont crank the engine.

3

Wait while the scanner turns on. Select the command "Retrieve Codes" -- the command may be somewhat different, depending on scanner brand. Wait for the code scanner to display the codes on its face and then write the codes down on a piece of paper.

4

Find the meaning of the codes in the scanners manual. Unplug the scanner and take the vehicle to be serviced or repaired.

A malfunctioning heater in your Chevy S-10 can make for a very long winter. If the weather is particularly cold, you may be tempted to replace the entire heating system, but there are some very simple fixes to try before taking such a drastic step.

Instructions

Check Antifreeze Levels

1

Open the S-10s hood.

2

Remove the cap on the antifreeze tank.

3

If the tank is empty, add antifreeze to the tank until reaching the fill line. A lack of antifreeze can cause the heater to malfunction as the heater coil is not properly cooled.

Check Radiator Hose

4

Open the S-10s hood.

5

Locate the radiator hose.

6

Examine the hose for any holes that could cause a coolant leak. If the radiator hose isnt totally visible, a sweet smelling odor, steam, or decreasing coolant levels over the period of just a few days are also indicators that the hose may be leaking coolant, which can cause the heater to malfunction.

Check the Thermostat

7

Open the S-10s hood.

8

Start the S-10. Make sure the engine is cold and has not been running recently before starting the truck.

9

Touch the upper portion of the radiator hose. If coolant is being delivered through the hose, even though the engine is not warm, this is a strong indicator that the thermostat is stuck in the open position and needs replacing. A malfunctioning thermostat will prevent the heater from working properly.